I've been living in this place for a few years but things got difficult when I separated from my husband after years of abuse. Thankfully I now have a restraining order in place so me and my children are safe. The first 6 months were really difficult because I wasn't sure how I could afford to live.
Even though I can afford the rent, I'm affected by the benefit cap so it makes it really tough to have a comfortable life. I don't have much left over after paying rent. I've spent some time working under 16 hours but that didn't really make much difference because I wasn't earning enough to lift the cap.
I've just started working 25 hours a week for a construction company as a cleaner but I do need some support with training and childcare - especially with half-terms and holidays coming up!
I'm enjoying this new job but I do have the dream of working in something like massage therapy or security. I'd love to do a course on my days off to help me for the future! Hopefully in 2 years time my life will be very different.